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Brennan C, Chan K, Kumar T, Maissy E, Brubaker L, Dothard MI, Gilbert JA, Gilbert KE, Lewis AL, Thackray VG, Zarrinpar A, Knight R. Harnessing the power within: engineering the microbiome for enhanced gynecologic health. REPRODUCTION AND FERTILITY 2024; 5:e230060. [PMID: 38513356 PMCID: PMC11046331 DOI: 10.1530/raf-23-0060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Graphical abstract Abstract Although numerous studies have demonstrated the impact of microbiome manipulation on human health, research on the microbiome's influence on female health remains relatively limited despite substantial disease burden. In light of this, we present a selected review of clinical trials and preclinical studies targeting both the vaginal and gut microbiomes for the prevention or treatment of various gynecologic conditions. Specifically, we explore studies that leverage microbiota transplants, probiotics, prebiotics, diet modifications, and engineered microbial strains. A healthy vaginal microbiome for females of reproductive age consists of lactic acid-producing bacteria predominantly of the Lactobacillus genus, which serves as a protective barrier against pathogens and maintains a balanced ecosystem. The gut microbiota's production of short-chain fatty acids, metabolism of primary bile acids, and modulation of sex steroid levels have significant implications for the interplay between host and microbes throughout the body, ultimately impacting reproductive health. By harnessing interventions that modulate both the vaginal and gut microbiomes, it becomes possible to not only maintain homeostasis but also mitigate pathological conditions. While the field is still working toward making broad clinical recommendations, the current studies demonstrate that manipulating the microbiome holds great potential for addressing diverse gynecologic conditions. Lay summary Manipulating the microbiome has recently entered popular culture, with various diets thought to aid the microbes that live within us. These microbes live in different locations of our body and accordingly help us digest food, modulate our immune system, and influence reproductive health. The role of the microbes living in and influencing the female reproductive tract remains understudied despite known roles in common conditions such as vulvovaginal candidiasis (affecting 75% of females in their lifetime), bacterial vaginosis (25% of females in their lifetime), cervical HPV infection (80% of females in their lifetime), endometriosis (6-10% of females of reproductive age), and polycystic ovary syndrome (10-12% of females of reproductive age). Here, we review four different approaches used to manipulate the female reproductive tract and gastrointestinal system microbiomes: microbiota transplants, probiotics, prebiotics, and dietary interventions, and the use of engineered microbial strains. In doing so, we aim to stimulate discussion on new ways to understand and treat female reproductive health conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitriona Brennan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Kristina Chan
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Tanya Kumar
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Erica Maissy
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Linda Brubaker
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Marisol I Dothard
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Jack A Gilbert
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Center for Microbiome Innovation, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Katharine E Gilbert
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Amanda L Lewis
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Varykina G Thackray
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Center for Microbiome Innovation, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Amir Zarrinpar
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Center for Microbiome Innovation, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Jennifer Moreno Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, La Jolla, California, USA
- Institute of Diabetes and Metabolic Health, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Rob Knight
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Center for Microbiome Innovation, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- Halıcıoğlu Data Science Institute, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
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Meng Y, Sun J, Zhang G. Vaginal microbiota transplantation is a truly opulent and promising edge: fully grasp its potential. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2024; 14:1280636. [PMID: 38585656 PMCID: PMC10995359 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2024.1280636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Vaginal microbiota transplantation (VMT) is a cutting-edge treatment modality that has the potential to revolutionize the management of vaginal disorders. The human vagina is a complex and dynamic ecosystem home to a diverse community of microorganisms. These microorganisms play a crucial role in maintaining the health and well-being of the female reproductive system. However, when the balance of this ecosystem is disrupted, it can lead to the development of various vaginal disorders. Conventional treatments, such as antibiotics and antifungal medications, can temporarily relieve the symptoms of vaginal disorders. However, they often fail to address the underlying cause of the problem, which is the disruption of the vaginal microbiota. In recent years, VMT has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach that aims to restore the balance of the vaginal ecosystem. Several studies have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of VMT in treating bacterial vaginosis, recurrent yeast infections, and other vaginal conditions. The procedure has also shown promising results in reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections and preterm birth in pregnant women. However, more research is needed to establish optimal donor selection, preparation, and screening protocols, as well as long-term safety and efficacy. VMT offers a safe, effective, and minimally invasive treatment option for women with persistent vaginal problems. It could improve the quality of life for millions of women worldwide and become a standard treatment option shortly. With further research and development, it could potentially treat a wide range of other health problems beyond the scope of vaginal disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiming Meng
- Department of Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, China
| | - Jing Sun
- Department of Biobank, Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, China
| | - Guirong Zhang
- Department of Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, China
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Kaur M, Miquel S, Ollivier-Nakusi L, Thoral C, Vareille-Delarbre M, Bekirian C, d'Enfert C, Fontaine T, Roget K, Forestier C. Elemental sulfur enhances the anti-fungal effect of Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus Lcr35. Microbes Infect 2024; 26:105286. [PMID: 38160785 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2023.105286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus Lcr35 is a well-known bacterial strain whose efficiency in preventing recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis has been largely demonstrated in clinical trials. The presence of sodium thiosulfate (STS) has been shown to enhance its ability to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans strains. In this study, we confirmed that Lcr35 has a fungicidal effect not only on the planktonic form of C. albicans but also on other life forms such as hypha and biofilm. Transcriptomic analysis showed that the presence of C. albicans induced a metabolic adaptation of Lcr35 potentially associated with a competitive advantage over yeast cells. However, STS alone had no impact on the global gene expression of Lcr35, which is not in favor of the involvement of an enzymatic transformation of STS. Comparative HPLC and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of the organic phase from cell-free supernatant (CFS) fractions obtained from Lcr35 cultures performed in the presence and absence of STS identified elemental sulfur (S0) in the samples initially containing STS. In addition, the anti-Candida activity of CFS from STS-containing cultures was shown to be pH-dependent and occurred at acidic pH lower than 5. We next investigated the antifungal activity of lactic acid and acetic acid, the two main organic acids produced by lactobacilli. The two molecules affected the viability of C. albicans but only at pH 3.5 and in a dose-dependent manner, an antifungal effect that was enhanced in samples containing STS in which the thiosulfate was decomposed into S0. In conclusion, the use of STS as an excipient in the manufacturing process of Lcr35 exerted a dual action since the production of organic acids by Lcr35 facilitates the decomposition of thiosulfate into S0, thereby enhancing the bacteria's own anti-fungal effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manjyot Kaur
- NEXBIOME Therapeutics, 22 Allée Alan Turing, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France; Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, LMGE, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Sylvie Miquel
- Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, LMGE, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France.
| | | | - Claudia Thoral
- NEXBIOME Therapeutics, 22 Allée Alan Turing, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | | | - Clara Bekirian
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, INRAE USC 2019, Unité Biologie et Pathogénicité Fongiques, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Christophe d'Enfert
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, INRAE USC 2019, Unité Biologie et Pathogénicité Fongiques, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Thierry Fontaine
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, INRAE USC 2019, Unité Biologie et Pathogénicité Fongiques, 25, rue du Docteur Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Karine Roget
- NEXBIOME Therapeutics, 22 Allée Alan Turing, 63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France
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Bornbusch SL, Bamford A, Thacher P, Crosier A, Marinari P, Bortner R, Garelle D, Livieri T, Santymire R, Comizzoli P, Maslanka M, Maldonado JE, Koepfli KP, Muletz-Wolz CR, DeCandia AL. Markers of fertility in reproductive microbiomes of male and female endangered black-footed ferrets (Mustela nigripes). Commun Biol 2024; 7:224. [PMID: 38396133 PMCID: PMC10891159 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-05908-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Reproductive microbiomes contribute to reproductive health and success in humans. Yet data on reproductive microbiomes, and links to fertility, are absent for most animal species. Characterizing these links is pertinent to endangered species, such as black-footed ferrets (Mustela nigripes), whose populations show reproductive dysfunction and rely on ex-situ conservation husbandry. To understand microbial contributions to animal reproductive success, we used 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing to characterize male (prepuce) and female (vaginal) microbiomes of 59 black-footed ferrets at two ex-situ facilities and in the wild. We analyzed variation in microbiome structure according to markers of fertility such as numbers of viable and non-viable offspring (females) and sperm concentration (males). Ferret vaginal microbiomes showed lower inter-individual variation compared to prepuce microbiomes. In both sexes, wild ferrets harbored potential soil bacteria, perhaps reflecting their fossorial behavior and exposure to natural soil microbiomes. Vaginal microbiomes of ex-situ females that produced non-viable litters had greater phylogenetic diversity and distinct composition compared to other females. In males, sperm concentration correlated with varying abundances of bacterial taxa (e.g., Lactobacillus), mirroring results in humans and highlighting intriguing dynamics. Characterizing reproductive microbiomes across host species is foundational for understanding microbial biomarkers of reproductive success and for augmenting conservation husbandry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sally L Bornbusch
- Center for Conservation Genomics, Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, DC, USA.
- Department of Nutrition Science, Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, DC, USA.
| | | | - Piper Thacher
- Center for Conservation Genomics, Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, DC, USA
- Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation, George Mason University, Front Royal, VA, USA
| | - Adrienne Crosier
- Center for Animal Care Services, Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA, USA
| | - Paul Marinari
- Center for Animal Care Services, Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA, USA
| | - Robyn Bortner
- National Black-Footed Ferret Conservation Center, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Carr, CO, USA
| | - Della Garelle
- National Black-Footed Ferret Conservation Center, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Carr, CO, USA
| | | | | | - Pierre Comizzoli
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA, USA
| | - Michael Maslanka
- Department of Nutrition Science, Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jesús E Maldonado
- Center for Conservation Genomics, Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Klaus-Peter Koepfli
- Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation, George Mason University, Front Royal, VA, USA
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA, USA
| | - Carly R Muletz-Wolz
- Center for Conservation Genomics, Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Alexandra L DeCandia
- Center for Conservation Genomics, Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
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Labossiere A, Ramsey M, Merritt J, Kreth J. Molecular commensalism-how to investigate underappreciated health-associated polymicrobial communities. mBio 2023; 14:e0134223. [PMID: 37754569 PMCID: PMC10653818 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01342-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The study of human commensal bacteria began with the first observation of prokaryotes >340 years ago. Since then, the study of human-associated microbes has been justifiably biased toward the study of infectious pathogens. However, the role of commensal microbes has in recent years begun to be understood with some appreciation of them as potential protectors of host health rather than bystanders. As our understanding of these valuable microbes grows, it highlights how much more remains to be learned about them and their roles in maintaining health. We note here that a thorough framework for the study of commensals, both in vivo and in vitro is overall lacking compared to well-developed methodologies for pathogens. The modification and application of methods for the study of pathogens can work well for the study of commensals but is not alone sufficient to properly characterize their relationships. This is because commensals live in homeostasis with the host and within complex communities. One difficulty is determining which commensals have a quantifiable impact on community structure and stability as well as host health, vs benign microbes that may indeed serve only as bystanders. Human microbiomes are composed of bacteria, archaea, fungi, and viruses. This review focuses particularly on oral bacteria, yet many of the principles of commensal impacts on host health observed in the mouth can translate well to other host sites. Here, we discuss the value of commensals, the shortcomings involved in model systems for their study, and some of the more notable impacts they have upon not only each other but host health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Labossiere
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, The University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Matthew Ramsey
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, The University of Rhode Island, Kingston, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Justin Merritt
- Biomaterial and Biomedical Sciences, Oregon Health and Science University, School of Dentistry, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Jens Kreth
- Biomaterial and Biomedical Sciences, Oregon Health and Science University, School of Dentistry, Portland, Oregon, USA
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
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Santos FP, Carvalhos CA, Figueiredo-Dias M. New Insights into Photobiomodulation of the Vaginal Microbiome-A Critical Review. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13507. [PMID: 37686314 PMCID: PMC10487748 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of new technologies such as sequencing has greatly enhanced our understanding of the human microbiome. The interactions between the human microbiome and the development of several diseases have been the subject of recent research. In-depth knowledge about the vaginal microbiome (VMB) has shown that dysbiosis is closely related to the development of gynecologic and obstetric disorders. To date, the progress in treating or modulating the VMB has lagged far behind research efforts. Photobiomodulation (PBM) uses low levels of light, usually red or near-infrared, to treat a diversity of conditions. Several studies have demonstrated that PBM can control the microbiome and improve the activity of the immune system. In recent years, increasing attention has been paid to the microbiome, mostly to the gut microbiome and its connections with many diseases, such as metabolic disorders, obesity, cardiovascular disorders, autoimmunity, and neurological disorders. The applicability of PBM therapeutics to treat gut dysbiosis has been studied, with promising results. The possible cellular and molecular effects of PBM on the vaginal microbiome constitute a theoretical and promising field that is starting to take its first steps. In this review, we will discuss the potential mechanisms and effects of photobiomodulation in the VMB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda P. Santos
- Faculty of Medicine, Gynecology University Clinic, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.A.C.); (M.F.-D.)
- Clinical and Academic Centre of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
- Gynecology Department, Coimbra Hospital and University Center, 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Area of Environment, Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3001-301 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Carlota A. Carvalhos
- Faculty of Medicine, Gynecology University Clinic, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.A.C.); (M.F.-D.)
- Clinical and Academic Centre of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
- Gynecology Department, Coimbra Hospital and University Center, 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Margarida Figueiredo-Dias
- Faculty of Medicine, Gynecology University Clinic, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; (C.A.C.); (M.F.-D.)
- Clinical and Academic Centre of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
- Gynecology Department, Coimbra Hospital and University Center, 3004-561 Coimbra, Portugal
- Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), Area of Environment, Genetics and Oncobiology (CIMAGO), Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra, 3001-301 Coimbra, Portugal
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Choi Y, Han HS, Chong GO, Le TM, Nguyen HDT, Lee OEM, Lee D, Seong WJ, Seo I, Cha HH. Updates on Group B Streptococcus Infection in the Field of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10122398. [PMID: 36557651 PMCID: PMC9780959 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10122398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Group B Streptococcus (GBS, Streptococcus agalactiae) is a Gram-positive bacterium that is commonly found in the gastrointestinal and urogenital tracts. However, its colonization during pregnancy is an important cause of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Herein, we specifically looked at GBS in relation to the field of Obstetrics (OB) along with the field of Gynecology (GY). In this review, based on the clinical significance of GBS in the field of OBGY, topics of how GBS is being detected, treated, and should be prevented are addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yeseul Choi
- Graduate Program, Department of Biomedical Science, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
- BK21 Four Program, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyung-Soo Han
- Graduate Program, Department of Biomedical Science, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
- BK21 Four Program, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
- Clinical Omics Institute, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41405, Republic of Korea
| | - Gun Oh Chong
- Clinical Omics Institute, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41405, Republic of Korea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kyungpook National University Chilgok Hospital, Daegu 41404, Republic of Korea
| | - Tan Minh Le
- Graduate Program, Department of Biomedical Science, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
- BK21 Four Program, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
| | - Hong Duc Thi Nguyen
- Graduate Program, Department of Biomedical Science, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
- BK21 Four Program, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
| | - Olive EM Lee
- Graduate Program, Department of Biomedical Science, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
- BK21 Four Program, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
| | - Donghyeon Lee
- Graduate Program, Department of Biomedical Science, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
- BK21 Four Program, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
| | - Won Joon Seong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kyungpook National University Chilgok Hospital, Daegu 41404, Republic of Korea
| | - Incheol Seo
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41944, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (I.S.); (H.-H.C.)
| | - Hyun-Hwa Cha
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kyungpook National University Chilgok Hospital, Daegu 41404, Republic of Korea
- Correspondence: (I.S.); (H.-H.C.)
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Lower Genital Tract Microbiome-A Work in Progress. J Low Genit Tract Dis 2022; 26:71-72. [PMID: 34928255 DOI: 10.1097/lgt.0000000000000649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The lower genital tract microbiome is composed of millions upon millions of microbes colonizing this unique anatomical niche reflecting the influence of genetic, biologic, and behavioral factors. Over the last decade, as a result of ever advancing technology and research investment, our knowledge of this complex microbiome ecosystem has grown enormously. All too often such progress remains invisible to practitioners. In this special issue, clinical scientists, in a unique contribution, have bridged the ever-increasing distance between vaginal microbiota science and clinical disease. Approaching a myriad of pathologic entities, authors describe the clinical application of recent molecular laboratory findings encouraging diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic advances. Nevertheless, challenges are recognized and the authors outline vulvovaginal disease management opportunities. Above all, exposing the dynamism of vaginal microbiota affords a better understanding of pathogenesis of lower genital tract disease.
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